ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has forcefully rejected criticism aimed at the San Antonio Spurs regarding their conduct during the national anthem before Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. Smith called the claims of disrespect, which originated on social media, invalid.
The debate began after Spurs players, including star center Victor Wembanyama, were observed without their hands over their hearts for The Star-Spangled Banner. Wembanyama stood with his arms crossed, while the majority of his teammates stood with their hands behind their backs or at their sides. This prompted online claims that the team was being disrespectful on the league’s biggest stage.
Smith immediately addressed the issue, dismissing the accusations entirely. “This is patently false,” the analyst stated. He argued that the players’ conduct was not a breach of protocol or a sign of disrespect, but rather a common and acceptable way for athletes to observe the anthem.
To support his argument, Smith outlined that there are multiple ways to show reverence. “There are plenty of people who listen to the National Anthem and simply bow their heads with their hands in front of them or behind their backs and pay respects. Holding your hand over your heart is not a requirement. The Spurs were not being disrespectful in anyway.” While the U.S. Flag Code does state that civilians should place their right hand over their heart, it functions more as a tradition than a legally enforced rule. Smith’s commentary served to reframe the narrative, shifting focus back to the on-court action of the championship series, where the Knicks took a 1-0 series lead.
